Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Live Plant Safe: With Caution

General Description: Lionhead or Ranchu Goldfish are part of the fancy goldfish group, which do not occur naturally in the wild. Each line within this group have been selectively bred to exhibit specific traits. In the case of Lionhead or Ranchu goldfish, they most closely resemble oranda goldfish because these fish share the character of having a jelly-like mass on their heads called a wen however, Lionhead or Ranchu goldfish also have an arched back and lack a dorsal fin entirely. These unique features, in addition to their robust body shape, gives Lionhead or Ranchu goldfish an extremely charming appearance! Lionhead or Ranchu goldfish are one of the less hardy fancy goldfish types, and may be best left to the more experienced hobbyist in goldfish care. These fish are very social, and would do best when kept with other fancy goldfish. Lionhead or Ranchu goldfish are sold at various sizes, but consumers should be aware that they can grow up to 7″ in length and live up to 15 years, making this fish a long term commitment.

Diet Requirements: Lionhead or Ranchu goldfish are omnivores and will accept most foods that are offered. Some options include goldfish specific flake or pellets, brine shrimp, blood worms, and various plant matter. Supplementing vegetable matter is important in the diet of fancy goldfish. Fresh vegetables such as peas, zucchini slices or leafy greens including lettuce or spinach are encouraged. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish. Goldfish are notorious for becoming greedy and will often learn to “beg” for food, but feeding only once a day, or even every other day, should be exercised.

Care Requirements: A minimum 30 to 40 gallon aquarium is ideal for small Lionhead or Ranchu goldfish. More adult specimens will require a larger aquarium of 75 gallons or greater, especially to maintain multiple individuals. It is possible to keep a goldfish in smaller aquariums than 30 gallons temporarily, however goldfish in general produce a lot of waste and it can be more difficult in these circumstances to keep the nitrates at a low concentration. Goldfish should not be put into a biologically immature aquarium, as they are sensitive to nitrite and ammonia. Weekly or biweekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters up to standard (Nitrates < 20 ppm) for goldfish. Poor water quality can result in your goldfish developing permanent deformities or becoming sick in general. Equipping the aquarium with a canister filter can also be advantageous to maintain a healthier environment for goldfish. The aquarium should have high levels of dissolved oxygen, but not excessive flow as Lionhead or Ranchu goldfish are not very powerful swimmers. Goldfish prefer cool water, usually ranging from 60-70°F, but can tolerate temperatures up to 75°F. Because these fish prefer colder water, you may be wondering if a heater is necessary in a goldfish aquarium. We often think it is a good insurance policy to have in order to avoid temperature fluctuations of the aquarium due to external factors, such as heating or cooling of your residence. Heaters act like thermostats and will only turn on when needed. Due to being a coldwater species, Lionhead or Ranchu goldfish are best kept with only other goldfish varieties. Aquarium salt can really benefit the health of your fancy goldfish; we recommend adding a tablespoon per 5 gallons of water volume. Recommended water conditions, 60-70° F, KH 4-20, pH 6.8-7.5.

Purchase Size: Medium: 2” to 3”; Large: 3-1/4” to 4-1/4”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase size is approximate.